Headteacher burnt in BBQ accident meets royal guest to highlight work of Cornwall Air Ambulance

A HEAD-TEACHER who was airlifted by the Cornwall Air Ambulance was among those wishing HRH The Duchess of Cornwall a happy birthday on Wednesday .

Lisa Michell, who suffered severe burns in a barbecue accident in May, was airlifted to the specialist burns unit at Swansea’s Morriston Hospital by the air ambulance.

She is now recovering at home in Cornwall.

Speaking at the celebration, which took place at the Lostwithiel Drill Hall, Mrs Michell said: “This is my first outing since my accident, and what an occasion.

“The Duchess was lovely. She was very interested in what had happened to me and was asking about the flight to Swansea.

“I was very proud to be able to explain just what a difference the air ambulance had made for me.

“It was lovely to meet The Duchess, and also the team from the air ambulance, including the paramedic that helped me, and really saved my life.

“It’s been a great day.”

Lisa was joined by her husband Steve, as well as staff and volunteers of the Cornwall Air Ambulance, including South West Ambulance Service paramedic Paul Symonds, one of those who cared for Lisa during her 45 minute flight.

Her Royal Highness met with full-time Camborne charity shop volunteer Carol Clark and St Austell shop volunteer Chris Scott, who was instrumental in the timely opening of the new shop in Clifden Road.

The Duchess was also introduced to office volunteer Tammy Thorne, who has used the skills learned during her time with the charity to help her get a new job, as well as aircrew paramedic Stuart Croft, fundraising manager Susie Smith, chief executive Paula Martin and chairman Lady Mary Holborow.

The charity presented The Duchess with a birthday present of a beautiful handcarved fruit plate made especially for the occasion by the Mid Cornwall Woodturners.

Paula Martin, chief executive, said: “We are thrilled that The Duchess decided to spend a few moments of her birthday with members of the air ambulance team.

“It was particularly lovely that our Patron showed her appreciation to some of our volunteers who are so crucial to our fundraising, and to the ambulance service paramedics, for their life saving skills and dedication.

“I would also like to thank Lisa Michell for her bravery in speaking out so soon after her accident in which she sustained 33 per cent burns.

“Her testimonial to the importance of the Cornwall Air Ambulance to our communities has left us more determined than ever to keep fundraising.”

The birthday celebration took place on the final day of The Duke and Duchess of Cornwall’s annual summer visit to the county.

The Duchess also met representatives from Shelterbox and the Cornwall Community Foundation, for which she also acts as Royal Patron